I captured this image in Arches National Park last spring. I used a 38-second exposure via a 10-stop solid ND filter. I processed the image in Lightroom Classic CC and converted it to monochrome using Skylum (formerly Macphun) Luminar, and finished it off after returning to Lightroom.
Old Ford captured in infrared and processed in Lightroom and Luminar.
Replacing Silver Efex Pro 2 with Luminar
I’ve recently been adopting Skylum Software’s Luminar as a Photoshop plug-in to replace my aging Nik Collection. Don’t get me wrong, I still love Nik, but it’s outdated and I’m not sure where it’s going to end up (yes, I realize it’s been purchased by DXO). With a little practice, I’ve gotten to the point where Luminar is effectively replacing Silver Efex Pro 2 for monochrome conversion work.
With Luminar I’m able to replicate most of my go-to Nik filters, all in a single plug-in application. Luminar also supports Smart Filters, so you can create non-destructive edits if you use Smart Object layers in Photoshop. Instead of having to run multiple plug-ins (usually Silver Efex and Color Efex), I can do everything in a single interface
This image is a digital infrared capture (590nm) that I processed to emulate deep black (830nm) infrared using Luminar.
Explore the art of digital monochrome, October 30th
I’ve scheduled several online classes for the coming weeks. I hope you can join me online. Participants will be able to ask questions and will receive a printable PDF notes package to go along with the presentation. My classes are open to photographers of all levels who wish to expand their understanding of digital photography and post-processing. Registration is through Meetup.com
Upcoming Classes
Mastering Monochrome with Silver Efex Pro 2:
October 30th 12-2pm US Mountain Time
Recommended for: Intermediate to advanced photographers who wish to explore how to create fine-art quality monochrome images using Nik Software’s Silver Efex Pro 2 plug-in for Photoshop/Lightroom
Approaching storm at the Cape Florida Lighthouse, Bill Baggs State Park, FL (Click to enlarge)
Last week we took the workshop group to Key Biscayne, Florida to photograph the Cape Florida lighthouse. We had about 20 minutes to work with before a nasty thunderstorm rolled in.